Immersive theater experience ‘The Tapes’ set to premiere Friday

MOLINE, Ill. (KWQC) -The Rock Island Tunnel Co. is one of the newest, local production companies. Rather than using the stage to tell its stories, audience members are directed to walk from room to room, interacting with actors.

After debuting in February with “The Stacks,” Rock Island Tunnel Co. returns with its second outing, “The Tapes: An Immersive Revolution” that will run Oct. 11 to 26.

Based on Alexander Richardson’s play “Tapes from a Fascist State,” this new show follows a failed poet/sanitation worker named Yevhen. Assigned by the state to monitor him is Conrad.

Ben Gougeon, director of the production, has noted that it was important to all involved to present it prior to the election as a way to emphasize the importance of voting.

“The Tapes” will perform at Sound Conservatory’s downtown Moline location at 504 17th Street on Oct. 11, 12, 17-19, 24 and 26. All performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. with an additional late night performance at 10 p.m. on Oct. 26. Doors open to the public half an hour before curtain.

Capacity is quite limited which means advanced registration is highly encouraged. Tickets are available on Eventbrite, or on Rock Island Tunnel Co.’s Facebook and Instagram pages.